bcbell@inmet.UUCP (10/14/85)
** Bondo line ** Here's the basic lowdown on paints for autos: Acrylic lacquer- Easy to apply and quick drying, but you'll need several coats and the last few must be compounded to bring out the gloss. This is an ideal paint for the do-it-yourselfer because it dries fast. The faster a paint dries, the less dust will settle into the finish, and most people's makeshift spray booths (garages, etc.) are dusty. A pro lacquer job will cost because of all the buffing required and the many coats. Synthetic enamel- This is more difficult to apply than acrylic paint. It cannot be compounded abd takes forever to dry. It is cheap to buy and covers well. Acrylic enamel- A lot of good trade offs here. Dries faster than synthetic enamel, covers well and does not need to be compounded. Medium price. Polyurethane- The most expensive paint, it's also the hardest to apply, if only that it must be mixed with a catalyst prior to filling the cup. It can end up costing even more than expected because if it dries in the gun you'll have to buy a new one. This is by far the hardest paint available and the glossiest. As far as a reccommendation goes locate a good shop and ask them what they like to use. I assume the choice will be between acrylic enamel and polyurethane. I would also note that surface preparation and spray technique are the two most important variables in auto finishing. This means that if you want a superior finish your body work better be top notch. Expect to get a hard time from shops when you tell them you intend to do the body work yourself. R.M. Mottola Cyborg Corp. Newton, MA. (posted for me by a friend)